Middlebury College

With a population of over 2,600 students, Middlebury College is on a rural setting spread across 350 acres between the Green Mountains and the Adirondacks. Middlebury College has been making history for many years. It was the first school to issue a bachelor’s degree to an African American in 1823. It was also one of the first all-male schools to admit women in 1883, and it was the first institution to offer an environmental studies major in 1965. Since then, Middlebury has remained a school focused on academics and the growth of their students. They are often named one of the top schools “most beloved by their alumni,” according to U.S. News and World Report.

Middlebury College offers more than 40 departments for undergraduates. The most popular majors include economics, environmental studies, political science and government, English language and literature/letters, and psychology. More than 40 percent of students have one major, and about 30 percent of students choose to complete a double major.  Many students also choose to participate in one of Middlebury’s interdisciplinary programs. The school is well known for its Middlebury College Language Schools. They offer six, seven, or eight-week summer sessions devoted to helping students learn a specific language. The immersion program helps students focus on a language over the summer. Many Middlebury students also take advantage of the study-abroad programs offered. With more than 40 schools in 16 countries, students can take part in the C.V. Starr-Middlebury Study Abroad program to increase their understanding of international affairs. This program is often ranked in the top ten of all study-abroad programs in the country.

There is also an active social life on campus. There are more than 150 organizations for students to participate in. The Middlebury College Snow Bowl ski area has over 17 trails for students to explore. The school also holds America’s oldest Winter Carnival. Middlebury’s fun spirit is captured by activities like “Muggle Quidditch,” a game based on the Harry Potter series.  The school also has a popular sports presence. They compete in the New England Small College Athletic Conference (NESCAC) and have 31 NCAA Division III varsity teams.

With notable alumni and devoted faculty members, Middlebury students have a great support system. With a small, yet connected community, students interested in a strong liberal arts education should explore all that Middlebury has to offer. It has even been named one of the top colleges for “best quality of life.” Applicants seeking challenging academics with a fun social life should consider Middlebury College.